The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) reported that the Philippines will be launching a national halal strategy before the end of this year.
The Department of Tourism will be part of the officially appointed Halal Taskforce, ensuring that the national plan highlights halal-friendly travel and tourism and is not confined to food and food-related products alone, TTN has learnt.
Announced by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at the World Economic Forum in Davos, the strategy aims to position the Philippines as a gateway to the Asia-Pacific region.
Some of the initiatives that have been signed and are scheduled to happen include the PHP66 million ($1.16 million) partnership deal with Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Mindanao-Ministry of Trade, Investment, and Tourism to promote local halal goods and services that include local tourism, training entrepreneurs and reviving the country’s creative sector.
Apart from regional development and investment opportunities, the strategy also ensures international cooperation.
The Philippines is set to sign another landmark agreement with the UAE. Last month, Secretary Pascual and UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi reaffirmed their commitment to enhance and strengthen their economic ties. Both sides have already signed the Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (IPPA) during the Philippine National Expo Day at Expo 2020 Dubai in February 2022, and are currently in talks regarding the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
* Find out more from Tourism Promotions Board Philippines on stand number S9-210